An analytical look at the Arizona Cardinals heading into the 2011 NFL draft:

Team needs

1. Outside linebacker. The team has used a base 3-4 defense since Ken Whisenhunt became coach in 2007, but it has yet to develop outside linebackers — especially ones who can rush the passer. Last year’s starters, Clark Haggans and Joey Porter, will be 34 at the start of the season, and there is no assurance either will return in 2011. Porter did not provide the pass rush the coaches expected. Texas A&M outside linebacker Von Miller is a primary target with the No. 5 overall pick as well as Robert Quinn of North Carolina and Da’Quan Bowers of Clemson, if available.

2. Quarterback. Rookies John Skelton and Max Hall each started games as rookies in 2010, but unless the team signs a veteran free agent, this position remains one of need. It’s hard to envision, however, the Cardinals taking one with the fifth-overall pick. Florida State's Christian Ponder could be an option in the second round.

3. Inside linebacker. The run defense has struggled the last few seasons, partly because the Cardinals haven’t had an enforcer inside. Paris Lenon and Daryl Washington are too small to play the “Mike” position. The fifth-overall pick is too high for this need, but Martez Wilson of Illinois could be an option in the second round.

4. Left tackle. Levi Brown, the fifth-overall pick in the 2007 draft, was a disappointment after moving from right to left tackle in 2010. For a selection that high, Brown should be dominant. The club won’t use another fifth-overall pick on a tackle, but someone such as Alabama’s James Carpenter makes sense later.

5. Guard. Starting left guard Alan Faneca might retire, and right guard Deuce Lutui could leave via free agency. The team doesn’t have a promising young player in the pipeline. The team likes guards who can pull. Florida’s Mike Pouncey would be a great value at the top of the second round.

6. Tight end. At best, the production at this position has been average over the past last few years. That’s to be expected because the team has tried to get by with free agents and seventh-round picks. A talent infusion is needed, but there are a lot of other needs. Wisconsin’s Lance Kendricks could be available in the middle rounds.

7. Cornerback. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie had a substandard second season, and Greg Toler is learning. But a team can’t have too many solid cornerbacks. If Nebraska’s Prince Amukamara is there at No. 5, the Cardinals should be tempted. More likely, Arizona will wait a round or two before thinking about taking a corner.

8. Punter. Starter Ben Graham is great at pinning teams inside the 20, but he lacks the big leg to change field position in other ways. The Cardinals probably won’t draft a punter — unless they want to take Nebraska’s Alex Henery, who can also kick.

Five-year history

The Cardinals still are striving for consistency from year to year. They have had more production out of their late-round picks than their early ones. Wide receiver Steve Breaston (2007) and running back Tim Hightower ('08) were great selections in the fifth round.

Some first-round picks, however, have not produced like it, including tackle Levi Brown (fifth overall in '07) and running back Beanie Wells (31st in '09). Poor picks like linebacker Cody Brown (second round) and linebacker Buster Davis (third round) have caused problems on defense. Davis was cut at the end of training camp in his first season, and Brown was released before his second year. Those failures forced the Cardinals to spend money in free agency.

2006: D

2007: C

2008: B

2009: C

2010: B+

Just one question

Q: Would you rather see the Cardinals take a quarterback in the first round or a defensive player who more likely would be able to contribute immediately?

WR Larry Fitzgerald: “Whoever will help us the most. I just want to win. I don’t care if you suit up for us. If you can help us, come on out.”